M-38A1 FENDERS

[Joe Gopan]

Ever notice the damage to the front of M-38A1 fenders, even on M-38A1 Jeeps in pristine condition? This seems to be chronic to the M-38A1 and CJ-5's of the era, and is due to off road miles in brush and contact with alders and small trees. We were taught that it was OK to push thru trees up to 1-1/2" in diameter in the M-38A1 (7" Diameter) in the 5 Ton 6X6).
The MB and M-38 Fenders were a bit stiffer and not as prone to off road damage.

[SB5477]

Interesting. Thanks Ben!

[JMZ421]

Yes Thanks Ben. Must be the reason for the change from the initial shorter bumper to the wider bumper on the M38A1
I very much like these facts. John

[willystexas]

Not sure what caused this dent, but... yeah, it happens!

Fender dent

dent.jpg (238.77 KiB) Viewed 1404 times

[willystexas]

While we are on the topic of fenders... I would like to learn a little bit about M38A1/170/CJ fenders. The fender on my A1 has a "skirt" covering the 45 degree crease. Was this an original option, or has it been switched out? It might be from a 170 or CJ. I just don't know. Any ideas?

Fender crease

FenderCrease.jpg (111 KiB) Viewed 1402 times

mw

[Joe Gopan]

The fenders with the cover plate or reinforcing plate were introduced after M-38A1 60406 at the same time of the changeover from the Hinged Radiator Guard, the fender braces were shortened and did not attach to the frame. The TIE RODS from the Cowl to the Radiator Guards were also introduced at the same time. Jeeps with hinged radiator guards did not have the tie rods. Later radiator guards were supported in the center by a rubber cushion and the cover plates were necessary to reinforce the fenders at this point.

[SB5477]

The MB and M-38 Fenders were a bit stiffer and not as prone to off road damage.

The front wheels are sticking out way ahead of the fenders on the MB/GPW and they take the beating instead of the fenders.

[Joe Gopan]

The M-38A1 fender was designed to eliminate front tire mud and slush spray from covering the windshield.

[SB5477]

Yes, and it did a good job, but damaged easier.

[Joe Gopan]

Just a little Sunday Morning M-38A1 Trivia for those new to the M-38A1.